Ulysses S. Grant, from the Great Generals series (N15) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes Brands 1888

This small printed card of Ulysses S. Grant comes from a series made by Allen & Ginter Cigarettes. It’s a chromolithograph, meaning it was made using multiple lithographic stones, each applying a different color to the paper. Looking at the image, we can see how the flat areas of color create a striking, graphic effect. The material itself, thin and mass-produced, speaks to the card’s original purpose: to be collected by consumers of tobacco. These were not unique works of art, but rather, examples of commercial printing, made possible by industrial advancements. The amount of labor involved in producing these cards would have been considerable, both in the design and printing phases. The choice of subject matter – military leaders – tells us about the values that the company was trying to associate with its brand. It’s a reminder that even seemingly minor objects like this one can offer insights into the culture and economy of their time.